Ode to the Old

Yes, I know the elderly are a little slow, usually fiddling about in their purse or wallet for the exact change for their shopping. Or is it their slow, careful driving? Or is it their rambling on about the 'good old days'. Sometimes we think they are annoying. Sometimes we think they should just bloody well stay at home keep out of the way!

Well not me. I'm here to celebrate the elderly. I love old people. I love the fact that they are probably the last link to the 'real' past. When we see the grainy footage on the TV from the 1940s and 50s- people laughing into the camera, or kicking a tin can down the back alley- we think is this really what Britain was like just a relatively short time ago? Well the elderly actually lived during these times. The knowledge they possess is unreal. Remember they, more than likely, have experienced terror and hardship that many of us will never come close to experiencing. Imagine lying in bed at night constantly worrying about the German bombs, or being a mother and worrying about making the rations stretch far enough to feed their family. 

When I was younger we lived a quite hectic life- school and sport taking up our lives while my parents were both running their own firms. But whenever I went into my Grandma and Grandad's room I felt an instant calm. The warm fire, my Grandma clicking away with her knitting needles whilst watching Corrie. I just used to sit there for a bit and feel so much calmer!

Sure old people have their little quirks. They all seem to fill every surface in their homes with little ornaments. They refer to the radio as the 'wireless'. I imagine a generic old person's front room as being in complete silence save for the quiet ticking of a clock, or the pressure cooker. Plus, they seem to love the old crook lock. Even if it's worth more than the car it's protecting! Be sure though, don't ever underestimate them- they definitely have forgotten more than we know. They have a wealth of experience. They have seen many things come and go and many fashions change. Their opinions count for something. They know what works.

So next time you see that little old man shuffling down the road wearing a flat cap, maybe just stop and think for a while. And give them some respect. The respect they deserve.